JOSHUA SET TO PARK IT
ANTHONY JOSHUA’S heavyweight unification clash with Joseph Parker is on the verge of being arranged. WBO champion Parker has now agreed how the purse will be split, clearing the path for him to face WBA and IBF title holder Joshua. New Zealander Parker will get between 30 and 35 per cent of the pot after his team lowered their initial demands to secure a deal. David Higgins, who represents Parker, has received a contract from Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn.
He will now request a few minor changes before flying to London to complete the final details.
Higgins claimed that the talks have taken a giant step forward, but still urged caution on the final few issues of the contract being agreed.
The date and venue is still to be decided – but March 31 or April 7 are the preferred options.
Cardiff’s Principality Stadium remains favourite to host the fight. Twickenham Stadium in London is also being considered, while Manchester venues have not been ruled out.
Joshua’s team are keen for the fight to be agreed as soon as possible.
The unbeaten Brit is set to return to full training in January and wants a date fixed firmly in his diary.
If the deal with Parker suffers any late hitches, then Joshua will make a voluntary defence of his titles on March 24 at the O2 Arena in London.
Joshua last boxed in October when he stopped Carlos Takam.